Need more info? We've got you covered!
What do I need to know about my flight into the island?
Those flying into Barbados usually fly either American, Jet Blue or Air Canada depending on where you're coming from. It's important to know that you need to ensure you do your paperwork ahead of time to avoid any undue stress upon your arrival. Masks are not required on the island outside however are 100% required upon entry into any physical building. Those flying should ensure they have proper proof of vaccination along with the immigration form needed that can be found on travelform.gov.bb
Can companions find work on the island?
Companions with a visitor’s visa do not have the right to work in Barbados. Many companions who want employment work remotely for a US company.
What phone carriers are available on island? Is there a way to use your US phone on island?
There are two main phone and internet service providers in Barbados: Flow and Digicel. Many RUSM companions choose to keep their mobile phones and use WiFi calling while on the island in order to not incur international charges on their current phone plans. There are many apps that make it easy to use WiFi calling while some phones can do WiFi calling without a separate app. The most commonly used WiFi calling app on the island is WhatsApp. Most Bajans (island locals), including many local businesses, also use WhatsApp making it a very convenient option. Some companions choose to have an island mobile phone with a local Barbados number instead of or in addition to their mobile phone from their home country. Phones and SIM cards can be easily purchased on the island. However, most mobile phones available on the island are typically older models than typically found in the United States. Another option is to purchase an unlocked mobile phone before coming to the island then once on island, purchase a SIM card to obtain a local number. For those who choose to have only an island phone, there are apps for WiFi calling that can also provide a United States phone number that make it possible for contacts in the United States to call them. Another option used by companions on the island is Google Fi. Google Fi is a phone plan that works internationally at a relatively low cost. It uses a combination of local phone provider networks and WiFi calling and enables the user to keep their original mobile phone number. Data can be used for about 3 months internationally before it gets shut off.
What school and childcare options are available in Barbados?
Public schools in Barbados have good quality education (comparable to the US) and are free for non-residents. However, the school buildings, equipment, and grounds may not be what you would expect from a school in the US. While some companions have chosen to send their children to public schools, many companions choose alternative options for their school-aged children. Homeschooling is a popular route and companions have recommended online programs, such as K12, Schoolhouse Teachers, and Time4Learning. Other companions have recommended private schools, such as Great Kids (homeschool), St. Winifred's, Providence, and Beyond the Box Education. For most schools on the island (public and private) children are generally required to wear uniforms. Note that a student visa is a requirement for all school-aged children whether they are homeschooled or enrolled in public or private schools. Companions who have used daycare on the island recommend Home Away From Home Daycare and Great Kids Nursery & Preschool.
Is there a good doctor or clinic on island?
Finding medical resources for your family, especially for your children, can be intimidating. Companions have recommended NovaMed Family Clinic for affordable doctor visits for the whole family (especially for those without health insurance) and Well Kids Clinic for young children and babies. Dr. Bayo at the JRB Medical Clinic is highly recommended for anyone in need of an OBGYN.
Are there any places of worship on island?
There are! Visit with our members in the Whatsapp chat or Facebook page for recommendations.
What do I do in case of an emergency?
Check out RSO Emergency Pamphlet - Digital Copy.pdf and https://medical.rossu.edu/student-life/safety-and-security
Bring children to the island? Need a good school?
Public schools in Barbados have good quality education (comparable to the US) and are free for non-residents. However, the school buildings, equipment, and grounds may not be what you would expect from a school in the US. While some companions have chosen to send their children to public schools, many companions choose alternative options for their school-aged children. Homeschooling is a popular route and companions have recommended online programs, such as K12, Schoolhouse Teachers, and Time4Learning. Other companions have recommended private schools, such as Great Kids (homeschool), St. Winifred's, Providence, and Beyond the Box Education. For most schools on the island (public and private) children are generally required to wear uniforms. Note that a student visa is a requirement for all school-aged children whether they are homeschooled or enrolled in public or private schools.
Need a good Daycare?
Companions who have used daycare on the island recommend Home Away From Home Daycare and Great Kids Nursery & Preschool.
Need help with Visas?
RUSM will help companions obtain a visitor's visa when first arriving in Barbados. After the student receives their student visa stamp in their passport, companions can apply for an extension of stay. The below information includes a list of documentation that has been required by Barbados Immigration based on companion experiences:
- Valid Passport for Companion
- Completed Form B - Application for Extension of Stay
- One (1) Official Passport-Sized Photo
- Valid Return Ticket (Off-Island)
- Formal Invitation Letter from Student
- Photocopy of Student's Passport Bio Page
- Photocopy of Student's Student Visa Stamp
- For Spouses: A Notarized Copy of Marriage Certificate
- For Children: A Notarized Copy of Birth Certificate
- Background Check (for ages 18+) - either one from your local police department or an FBI background check should work